"Apparently answering the question "How many Beatles 'Tribute' albums do we need?" with the reply "At least one more," this compilation presents an interesting experience for fans of the Fabs. Combining varying styles, from power pop to free jazz, straightforward reading to the just plain weird, REVOLUTION No. 9 (perhaps the LEAST-covered track of the Beatles' catalogue) tries to appeal to both first-run fans and lovers of alternative pop.

Thus, it's a real hit-and-miss job. One listen, and you'll have your favorite tracks nailed. In my case, I love Mega City Four, Brilliant Cars and Loves Young Nightmare, who do fairly accurate but beefed-up versions of their chosen tracks. My sense of the absurd apprciate the eccentricity of John Otway's spoken-word take of "I Am the Walrus," and Frank Sidebottom's drunken version of "Flying" for which he provides jokey lyrics.

You can immediately tell that the record company was not taking this project terribly seriously, and even had the good humour to include tracks originally recorded by Klaatu ("True Life Hero," as keen a Lennon tribute as I've heard in a while) and The Rutles (the ultra-fun "I Must Be in Love").

Beatles purists will probably stay away from this one in droves. Fans of interpretations, modern pop, and novelty records will have a lot more fun here."